Final CEO Report
As this will be my final CEO report, I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks for the support of our members and all the heartwarming messages I have received from friends and partners across the sector. I am truly appreciative to have worked alongside so many dedicated, talented, and kind colleagues.
It has been a privilege to serve as the CEO for the past 8 years and I am proud of what we have been able to achieve together. I am fortunate that I can stay connected with the sector in my new role, and I look forward to reconnecting when the opportunity arises.
New CEO Announcement
I am confident that members and colleagues throughout the sector will join me in extending a warm welcome to Ian Airdas he takes on the role of CEO at English Australia. Ian brings with him a wealth of experience, coupled with a highly specialized knowledge of ELICOS and International Education, making him well-suited for his new position. I would like to personally extend my best wishes to Ian for success in the role.
You can read our full announcement here.
Advocacy Update:
Department of Home Affairs – Migration Strategy released
On December 11, the Commonwealth Government released the Migration Review, which is a series of documents entitled Migration Strategy: Getting migration working for the nation. For workers. For businesses. For all Australians. The ‘increase English language requirements to improve the quality of students’ educational experience in Australia and reduce potential workplace exploitation’, was anticipated as I’ve outlined in the branch meetings and member updates since the draft strategy was released.
This week, I engaged in discussions with the Department of Home Affairs to seek clarification on implementation timelines, details regarding the application of the change in English language requirements, as well as conditions related to pathway programs and potential changes to reporting requirements on enrolment. The Department of Home Affairs has committed to prioritising additional details on these crucial topics, and we will distribute this information to our members once it becomes available. Stay tuned for further updates.
Strategic Plan 2024-2026 launched
This month, following months of collaborative efforts, including member survey analysis, Board engagement, and careful planning, English Australia launched our new Strategic Plan for 2024-2026. This plan builds off the success of our previous strategic plan and provides scope for English Australia to expand our member services to ensure that we continue to evolve with the needs of our members. Please review the new plan here.
Austrade Collaboration Agreement renewed
I am pleased to announce that English Australia renewed its collaborative agreement in December with Austrade, which formalises the ways we can work together to advance the ELICOS sector programs to the benefit of the Australian international education sector. This will also secure our future Market Spotlight webinar series throughout 2024 and beyond, as well as other market development opportunities. This agreement has been extended to last for three years, instead of the previous two years, further solidifying our partnership.
End of Year branch meetings
Visiting the branches in person at the end-of-year meetings was the best way for me to end my tenure at English Australia and has always genuinely been one of my favourite activities as CEO. We had an amazing turnout at all branches, and it was lovely to be able to network and socialise with many of you after the formalities. I would like to encourage our members to continue to attend these meetings as they offer an excellent forum to stay informed about sector updates, English Australia’s initiatives, and foster valuable connections with colleagues from fellow member colleges.
Christmas message
I would like to take a moment to express my warmest wishes to you and your loved ones this festive season. May Christmas bring you an abundance of joy, laughter, and cherished moments. On a more practical note, please be advised that English Australia will be closed from Monday 25 December 2023 – Monday 1 January 2024 inclusive and will re-open on Tuesday 2 January.
As a reminder, my last day will be Friday 5 January. After this date, and prior to Ian’s commencement, please contact our Secretariat for any enquiries at (+61 2 9264 4700) or Email: easec@englishaustralia.com.au
